Best Laser Measurers

Review & Comparison, Last Update March 7, 2019

Are you a home owner who no longer finds a tape measure handy? Maybe, you are an experienced professional who looks for an expert advice to choose from a variety of laser measurers! Our review will help any interested reader make up his mind!...Read more...Read less

Sometimes you may encounter difficulties synchronizing the measure with your smart devices.

OUR VERDICT

This model has excellent characteristics to provide a quality and fast measuring. Enhanced functionality of the device features built-in inclinometer which allows for advanced functions such as measuring angles, stake out and double indirect. Color and backlit display offers additional comfort and convenience in use.

In terms of functionality and convenience, this is by far and large one of the finest models on the market. It is an ideal choice for professionals measuring long distances at large-scale construction sites or infrastructure projects. Its improved functionality, superior features and high accuracy will enhance the precision and efficiency of your work.

Thanks to light weight you can easily take measurements even when holding the device above your head.

CONS

Lack of dust and water resistance.

OUR VERDICT

We decided that this laser measurer would be an optimal choice for home use. No need to spend more money. This device comes at an affordable price and offers all standard measuring modes, being very simple and intuitive in use.

A modest measuring range may not suffice for professional use on large-scale construction sites, but amateurs will definitely enjoy its excellent and by far superior precision in comparison with other mid-range models.

High water resistance ensures protection against water spills or rainy days.

CONS

Large size.

OUR VERDICT

If the durability and high resistance of the device is one of your top priorities, this model with its over-molded housing and IP65 certification would be an excellent choice. Easy in use and accurate in measurements it offers great functionality which can meet the needs of any home user.

Bosch GLM 50 C

Three Measuring Points

German manufacturers are recognized for producing goods of superior quality, especially in the category of precision measuring tools. Hence, it is not surprising that well-known brand Bosch produces measuring instruments, such as laser measurers. Bosch GLM 50 is made for professional use, but it can also be used by amateurs. This laser measurer has several main measurement modes, including length, area, volume and indirect measurement. Built-in inclinometer allows for advanced features like angles, stake out and double indirect. The device can perform measurements in the range from 2 inches to 165 ft, with an accuracy of 1/16'' under ideal conditions. When working with laser measurer, you can add or subtract values in order to measure area (excluding unnecessary objects, such as windows and doors) or volume. This model stores the last 30 measurements. The measurements can be displayed in feet, inches, meters or centimeters. We would like to note that in addition to two standard reference points - at the front and back of the device, there is the third one in the center designed for use with a tripod. The device is powered by AAA batteries and can generate up to 10 000 measurements or last for 2.5 hours of continuing measurement per charge.

Built-in Leveling

This model's distinctive feature is color display with orientation sensing function, which allows for autorotation depending on the orientation of the device. When you make measurements holding the device horizontally, the device rotates text automatically to readable orientation. Besides, the device may switch automatically between incline mode and digital spirit level. For the first one you need to position the device on its left side, for the second - place the device on its back on the surface of the object. The device is protected against dust and water in accordance with IP54 standard. It allows using it in different weather conditions and all-year but only within an acceptable temperature range from 14°F to 113°F. The device is easy to use and navigate - it has only 7 buttons and a very intuitive menu with a roller which helps you choose a desirable mode. We'd like to note that display's backlight is activated automatically when you switch on the device, but if it is not in use for more than 20 seconds - it will be muted. In continuous measuring mode, a laser beam goes off in 20 seconds but the device will stay on for another 5 minutes. The main advantage of the model is built-in Bluetooth, which allows you to sync your laser measurer with smart devices and transfer all measurements to special Bosch Measuring Master application. In this app, you may create a new floor plan, overlay lines and measurements of objects within a picture and export these data into a file. Also, this application features a button for remote measurement. It means that you can take measurements with the help of your smartphone or tablet at a distance from the laser measure. This option could be particularly useful when using the device on a tripod, as this model comes with a tripod mounting hole at the back of the device. As you can see, this model has excellent characteristics, in order to provide quality and efficient measurements of various objects. Color backlit display and autorotation will make this process incredibly comfortable.

More Products to Consider

To ensure long use of your laser measurer, make sure to have some good-quality batteries in stock. You may also need to use a digital laser or infrared thermometer to take the temperature of various objects.

What customers say about this product

The device itself is sturdy and well-built. The product works as described.

Measuring

The Bosch GLM 50 C makes measuring a snap--just make sure your line is level and within the 6 inch to 165 feet range. This device allows for tripod mounting. Recommended.

Features

Also love the integration with smart devices via blue tooth. In my opinion, between the internal memory, instant data transfer to a smart device, and ability to create projects using a smartphone or a tablet

Leica Geosystems 838725

Swiss Precision

Leica company is known worldwide for its high-quality optics and cameras. Today Leica brand is also recognized in the world of measurement and survey. Leica Geosystems AG became an independent division of Leica Group in 1997 with the head office in Switzerland. It was Leica Geosystems who first pioneered laser measuring devices and introduced them as an alternative to a traditional tape measure in 1993. Having combined and incorporated many-years' experience of different companies, Leica Geosystems AG holds a leading position among the producers of surveying equipment. Leica Geosystems' premium products and innovative solution developments are used by professionals from a broad range of vital industries and can satisfy any geospatial needs. Now, one of their high precision laser measuring instruments is under our review. We focus on a model DISTO D2. It is equipped with a standard laser, which can measure any distance from 2 inches to 330 ft. Such distance capacity may usually be needed in construction measurement works or remodeling projects, but it doesn't mean that it cannot be used by homeowners engaged in home improvement projects. Its compact size and ease of use make the device appealing to amateurs and professionals alike. Besides usual measurements such as length, area, and volume, this model has built-in stake-out as well as Pythagorean functions. While many users are familiar with standard functions, additional features may need further clarification. The stake out function is ideal in a situation when you need to measure consistent intervals to locate the objects. Whereas Pythagorean function is used to make indirect measurements of places which are hard to reach without having to strain when taking measurements. The model has an accuracy of 1/16 inch when you work indoors. Weather conditions always need to be taken into account when working outdoors. All measurements can be safely stored in the memory of the device, both in metric and imperial units. Finally, the laser measurer uses 2 AAA batteries which last for up to 10 000 measurements. Regardless of the application DISTO D2 is the right and quality tool for every job.

Measuring The Diagonal

Today even the most complex devices may be simple and easy in use, just as this model. Being able to perform sophisticated calculations, it can be managed with only 8 buttons, located on the front panel. When in use, the built-in speaker emits additional sounds which can assist in measurement by signaling measurement condition. Among extra features of the model is timer function, which can be used to delay start. It can be necessary when there is only one person to execute different measurements and adjust the location of objects. As most of the models offered by other producers, Leica DISTO D2 has the function of automatic switch-off: the laser goes off in 90 seconds and if no key is pressed for another 180 seconds the device switches off automatically as well. Many common measurements are diagonal measurements that require placing your device all the way into the corner. However, due to a thick base, not all models can cope with the task. The solution to this problem is a flip-out extension, which will ensure the accuracy of measurements from any hard-to-reach places. If you need to measure the diagonal of a room with Leica DISTO D2 you wouldn't even need to think about moving the measuring point manually. The automatic intelligent end piece, connected to the circuit board, tells the device that the measured distance should be corrected by the lengths of the end-piece. Thus, your device will know that it measures from a point located at its base. Finally, the main advantage of this model is the presence of Bluetooth technology. Any human error can be eliminated entirely by transferring measured data automatically from the laser measurer to an official application installed on smart devices, be it a smartphone, a laptop or tablet. You can easily add measurements to a new floor plan, a sketch or a photograph, clearly drawing the dimensions of the desired objects. After that, you can send your measurements by email or export them to a file. Besides, the application has an online instruction manual available in many languages. If you need to clarify any information or need further guidance on the operation of the device - just open the app. To complete the picture, we could only add that similar to other models the device is protected against water and dust in accordance with IP54 standard. A firm brand pouch that comes with the device makes its transportation very safe and convenient. To sum it up, this is one of the best models in terms of functionality, speed, and convenience from the world-class manufacturer of surveying equipment. This laser measurer is fast, simple and easy. After making the desired measurements built-in Bluetooth will help you quickly transfer data to a user-friendly application on your smart device and eliminate any source of error altogether.

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight

The tool is light and compact and and has a very bright display.

Features

10-register memory is very useful: you can take a string of dimensions and then write them down, plus it can add for you. Pythagorean function is useful, but requires a good deal of extra care to get an accurate number.

Measuring

I checked the accuracy using a precision distance scale in the laboratory, and for a 1 meter distance, the accuracy was 0.001 meter.

Stanley STHT77138X

Laser Measurer for Home Use

Stanley is one of the main brands of Stanley Black & Decker company, which is the manufacturer of a wide range of instruments for home use, as well as for repair and maintenance of large infrastructures. In addition, the company produces precise measuring devices, one of which we are going to review here.

Model TLM is mainly recommended for indoor use since its measurement range does not exceed 100 ft. This device will suit best for home remodeling projects or small-scale construction works. This model has the laser power of 1 mW, with a wavelength in the range of 620-690 nm. The device can measure area and volume of the room. The measurements can be displayed in meters, feet, or inches: you may easily toggle between any type of measuring units. When working with this device you can select a measuring mode either from the top or base. It is also possible to use the function of continuing measurement which allows you to find a target distance quickly and easily. Comparable to a traditional tape measure this function lets you see the measurements continuously adjusting as you move towards or away from the target. At the same time, the addition and subtraction feature offers a convenient way to calculate the area of a room without windows and doors, using standard or metric, fraction or decimal mode. A minimum distance which could be measured is 4 inches and the accuracy of its readings under ideal conditions will be in the vicinity of 3/32 inches - we find it quite acceptable for home use. The device operates on 2 AAA batteries, which last for up to 3 000 measurements.

Even Easier to Measure

At the first sight this laser measurer doesn't look much different from its competitors. However, for its large size, it has the lowest weight, which makes the device incredibly convenient during prolonged use. The device is easily navigated with only 5 buttons, which can be pressed once or held for a few seconds to perform different actions. Taking measurements becomes twice easier! When scrutinizing the device we have discovered that if it remains idle for over 90 seconds in the continuous measuring mode, the laser beam will switch off; the power will switch off in 3 minutes. We have also established that the model can operate in the temperature range from 32°F to 104°F. Unfortunately, we could not find any mentioning of the housing protection against water or dust. Therefore, we do not recommend using it in bad weather.

At the end, we have concluded that this laser measurer could be an excellent choice for home use. It has all popular standard functions and at the same time is very straightforward in use.

More Products to Consider

Laser levels are probably the best solution for getting clearly visible leveled lines on almost any surface.

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight

This is a compact unit loaded with good features. I

Features

It also has a corner-stand at the bottom for help in doing angles

Measuring

I tested the accuracy against my tape measure and it works as advertised. It's also very easy to use. I could get started doing simple measurements without having to read the manual, which is saying something.

Bosch DLR130K

No Hurry

Here is one more high precision laser distance measuring tool from Bosch. DLR130K Model belongs to non-professional devices because its measuring range does not exceed 131 ft. Many home users would find it sufficient for any outdoor and not to mention indoor measurements. Let's look at the functionality of the model in detail. Laser capacity is considered standard for the device in this category - 1mW and wavelength is 635 nm. The device is powered by 4 AAA batteries and one charge may provide up to 5 hours of continuous laser use or 30 000 single measurements. So, there is no need for you to hurry - take your time to take your measurements! Laser distance measurer from Bosch can measure length, area and volume starting from as little as 2 inches! Besides, just as many other models this device has a continuous measurement function, which allows you to find the target distance quickly and easily! All measurements can be added, subtracted and stored in a memory unit. Under ideal conditions, this device is accurate to 1/16 of an inch. Measuring speed may vary from 0.5 to 4 seconds depending on weather conditions and the surface of the target object. A user may select preferable units of measurement, feet or meters, which may be handy for use in countries with the metric system.

Convenient Grip

Having looked into the functionality of the device and the measurement process, we can go on to consider the convenience of use. For starters, it is worth mentioning the high-quality drop-resistant housing with rubberized gripping on the sides. Be sure, this device won't slip out of your hand. Nevertheless, it won't hurt to be cautious since this is a high precision instrument and falls may adversely affect its operation. Thus we recommend wearing it on the wrist and provide the link to a set of 5 firm nylon hand wrist straps below.

Speaking of its housing, we need to note that its bottom end is absolutely flat while the top end is only partly smooth. It was designed in such a way to allow a user to take measurements not only from the base but also from the top of the device, for instance, when taking measurements off a wall or an edge of a table. The device automatically switches off to save the battery power: the laser beam goes off in 20 seconds, but the device stays on for another 15 minutes. As we pointed out earlier, this laser measurer can also be used outdoors at varying temperature from +14­°F to +122°F. Besides, the device features dust, water, and debris resistance in accordance with IP 54 standard and can operate under bad weather conditions. However, despite well-protected housing, the laser accuracy significantly diminishes in the wind, rain or snow. You may well consider staying at home and taking measurements another day when the weather improves. Under different circumstances, if you want to enhance accuracy (especially if you have to take measurements over long distances), you are highly advised to use a tripod, as this device comes with a tripod mounting hole. Lastly, the laser measurer comes in a set with a brand pouch for storage and convenient transportation.

To sum it up, the device will definitely be a great assistance to those remodeling their house or working on small-scale home improvement or construction projects, as it makes the measuring process much more efficient and precise.

More Products to Consider

Bosch 57-GLASSES enhance the visibility of laser beams on bright sunny days and over long distances.

DEWALT DW03050

Simple Measurements

Another one in our review is a model from Dewalt. It is one of the easiest to use laser measurers and yet with good functionality. Its laser power is slightly less than 1 mW at a wavelength of 620-690 nm. It is able to measure distances of up to 165 ft with accuracy of 1/16 inch but under ideal conditions, such as indoors or outdoors on cloudy, windless days. This laser distance measurer can operate in a usual length measuring mode, as well as calculate area and volume. It also features indirect measurement with the Pythagorean function which is a great solution when you have to deal with hard-to-reach places. Besides, it offers a continuous measurement function together with an option to add or subtract values. Finding out the area of a room without windows and doors is easy now! No need to use a calculator - this device does everything for you! It shows last 5 measurements which can be displayed in both meters and feet. Powered by 2 AAA batteries, it may generate up to 3000 measurements per one charge.

Confidence During Work

A few words about the convenience of use. The housing is made of quality drop-resistant plastic which can withstand falls from up to 6 feet. This model may also surprise you with IP65 protection. No need to worry if you leave your device in the rain or accidentally drop it from a ladder - it can survive any misfortune. You can safely use it at any temperature from 32 to 104°F. A bright backlit display will let you use the device in bright sunlight as well as in dim or poor lighting. So, heat or cold, rain or snow won't stop you anymore from work. Hopefully, such resistance to external damage could justify its larger size in comparison with other models! If the device is left unattended for more than 3 minutes it will switch off automatically to save the battery power. In the continuous measuring mode, the laser beam will be off in 90 seconds and the device - in 3 minutes. Easy and precise in use the device has a solid housing which greatly improves its durability. Altogether, this model would please amateurs and boost their confidence in work.

More Products to Consider

With a digital caliper, you can measure not only linear distance but also radial dimensions. This tool will let you take the most precise measurements of the radius or diameter of any circle that has dimensions under 6".

What customers say about this product

The range is fantastic and the accuracy is always within 1/16" which is fine for field checks. It's great when working by yourself or doing long measurements in the 100ft + range.

Features

You can display measurements in feet and inches

DEWALT DW03050

What is a Laser Measurer

It is hard to imagine any construction or renovation project without a measuring tool such as a traditional measure tape. It may prove useful for measuring the length of gypsum plasterboard or a piece of a plastic pipe. However, when it comes to larger measurements, especially when measuring distances of over 20 feet, a traditional measure tape would hardly be any good.

Whether you are at the construction site or remodeling your house, you will find a Laser Measuring Device to be indispensable. You can easily measure not only the length or height of the premises but also its area and volume. At the same time, you can save all measurements and subtract the area of windows and doors - all in a matter of seconds and without using a calculator! Besides, some models are Bluetooth-enabled, which allows a user to pair a laser measurer with other smart devices and easily transfer data. A laser measure is handy and easy to use. Once you position the device at the right spot and hit the button, laser measurer will project a laser beam on the desired surface. When the beam reaches the object it is automatically reflected back to the receiver. The distance is calculated through comparison of laser reflection with the beam sent out.

Below we describe which parameters you need to consider when deciding on which laser measurer will be right for you.

Having measured and marked off spots on a wall, you can an impact driver for a fast and quality drilling.

Best Laser Measurers

What Features to Compare

Measuring Characteristics

First of all, the choice of a laser measurer will depend on the scope of work. One of its key characteristics which has to be considered is a range. For home use, inside the premises or not too distant measurements outdoors it would suffice to use models with a range capacity from 100 to 150 ft. For small construction sites, it may suffice to use a device with a range from 150 to 300 ft. Those working on large-scale industrial or road construction projects may require models with a range of over 300 ft. Afterward, decide on the type of measurements you need. You don't want to pay more for extra capacity or redundant functions you will never use. Absolutely all of the models considered in our review can measure length, area, and volume, as well as perform continuous measurement and store and display last few measurements from its memory unit. More functional models may perform indirect measurements according to the Pythagorean theorem, measure angles, have a timer function and have a beep signal to inform a user when the device completes its reading. All measurements may have a varying degree of accuracy, which will depend on a number of factors. For example:

weather conditions, such as wind, fog, rain or snow;

surface the laser is being pointed at. The device's performance depends on the principle of reflection of the laser beam from the object. If the surface is rough or dark, then the reflection and precision of measurement will be inferior.

steadiness. To measure long distances it is best to use a tripod. The tripod will ensure maximum steadiness; while the risk of displacement of the laser beam from the desired object will be reduced to zero.

Based on this, we can conclude that the ideal conditions for using a laser measurer are the premises with very smooth and light surfaces. The device needs to be as steady as possible, whether it is a tripod or a firm grip of a user - it depends. Besides, don't forget to consider duration of battery life, different models can perform from 3000 up to 30 000 single measurements per charge.

Additional Features

Besides its main functions, some laser measures may have additional features. Let's consider the most important one - built-in Bluetooth. With its help, you may sync the measurer with smart devices and all measurement data will be transferred to installed application. In addition, such applications have the ability to design a new floor plan for a room or overlay lines and measurements on any object within a picture. Let's proceed to the display. Some models are equipped with backlight which enables users to see in low or dim light. The matrix can be either monochrome or colored. In some models the screen can change orientation depending on the rotation of the device. As we said, not all of the models have a socket for tripods. Therefore once you determined the scope of work, you may consider choosing a model with a socket. One of the special features is a flip-out end piece, located at the bottom of the device. The end piece allows performing measurements not only from flat surfaces but also from various deepenings and corners of a room, which comes especially handy when measuring its diagonal. At the end, consider using additional accessories, such as a reflective target plate or special laser glasses. The target plate is needed when working with uneven or dark surfaces, and laser glasses will help improve the visibility of the laser beam and see a laser dot on the object in dim or too bright conditions.